Cheesy Seafood Casserole with Shrimp and Imitation Crab - Easy and Delicious Recipe
Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of this homemade cheesy seafood casserole that combines succulent shrimp, tender imitation crab meat, and a smooth blend of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, this dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With just the right balance of flavors and a delightful cheesy topping, this seafood casserole is sure to impress your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're a seafood lover or looking to try something new, this easy-to-make casserole is a must-try!
Cheesy Seafood Casserole with Shrimp and Imitation Crab
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1 lb Imitation crabmeat (or real, if preferred)
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1/2 lb shrimp
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1/2 large onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings
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3 tablespoons butter (2 tablespoons for sautéing onions, 1 tablespoon for drizzling)
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1/3 cup mayonnaise
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1/3 cup sour cream
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4 ounces cream cheese (1/2 a block)
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup for the mixture, 1 cup for the top)
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2 cups shredded mozzarella (1 cup for the mixture, 1 cup for the top)
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2 teaspoons garlic powder
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1 teaspoon dried parsley (or a handful of fresh, chopped, plus additional for garnish)
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
For The Top:
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1 tablespoon melted butter (for drizzling)
To Thicken The Sauce:
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2 tablespoons Corn Starch
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3 tablespoons cold water
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How Do You Make
Cheesy Seafood Casserole with Shrimp and Imitation Crab
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Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
Sauté Onions:
In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and sauté until softened. Set aside and let cool until softened.
Prepare Casserole Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine imitation crabmeat, extra-small shrimp, sautéed onions, mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust ingredients as needed.
Prepare Cornstarch Slurry:
In a small bowl, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2-3 tablespoons of cold water. Adjust water quantity for desired consistency.
Thicken Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the casserole mixture and stir well to combine.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella inside the casserole.
Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella on top of the casserole.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
Drizzle with Butter:
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of melted butter over the top before serving.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh or dried parsley before serving.
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How Do You Store and Reheat Cheesy Seafood Casserole with Shrimp and Imitation Crab?
Storage:
Refrigeration:
Once the casserole has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover it well to prevent odors from the refrigerator affecting the taste.
Labeling:
Consider labeling the container with the date to help you keep track of freshness.
Use Within: Aim to consume the leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Reheating:
Oven Method:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to around 350°F (175°C).
Cover:
If possible, cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
Reheat: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and heat until it's warmed through. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, but the exact time may vary based on the portion size and your oven.
Check Temperature: For food safety, ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Microwave Method:
Cover or Use a Microwave-Safe Lid: Cover the casserole with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
Reheat in Intervals: Heat the casserole in short intervals (e.g., 1-2 minutes) to prevent uneven heating. Stir between intervals to ensure even reheating.
Check Temperature: Similar to the oven method, ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Additional Tips:
Add Moisture:
If the casserole seems a bit dry after reheating, you can add a splash of broth, water, or additional sauce to restore moisture.
Fresh Garnish:
Sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley or other herbs on top before serving to add a burst of color and flavor.
Avoid Overheating:
To prevent the casserole from becoming overcooked and losing its texture, avoid overheating during the reheating process.
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Crab and Shrimp Casserole Variations:
Nut-Based Topping:
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Almond or Pecan Crust: Create a topping with crushed almonds or pecans mixed with butter for added richness and crunch.
Herb Infusion:
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Herb Butter: Mix chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill with melted butter and drizzle it over the casserole before baking.
Vegetable Medley:
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Zucchini or Asparagus: Incorporate sliced zucchini or asparagus into the casserole for a fresh and crisp element.
Citrusy Twist:
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Lemon or Orange Zest: Add citrus zest to the mixture for a bright and refreshing flavor.
Smoky Flavor:
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Smoked Paprika: Infuse a smoky essence by including a dash of smoked paprika to the seasoning.
Cajun Spice Infusion:
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Cajun Spice Blend: Elevate your casserole with the vibrant and bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. Introduce a generous amount of Cajun spice blend to the mixture, creating a harmonious balance of heat and aromatic spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
Mediterranean-Inspired Toppings:
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Kalamata Olives and Feta: Enhance the casserole with the classic Mediterranean combination of Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese. The olives add a briny flavor, while the feta brings a creamy and tangy element.
Low-Carb Twist:
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Vegetable Ribbons: Embrace a low-carb option by incorporating colorful vegetable ribbons, such as zucchini or squash. These ribbons not only add a vibrant touch but also contribute a refreshing and nutritious element to your Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Casserole.
Roasted Garlic:
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Roasted Garlic Cloves: Roast garlic cloves and mix them into the casserole for a mellow, savory flavor.
Spice It Up:
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Jalapeños or Hot Sauce: Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle hot sauce into the mixture for a spicy kick.